PG & Research Department of Biochemistry

 Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, caused by an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow compound formed during the breakdown of red blood cells. There are several potential causes of jaundice, including: Liver Diseases : Conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer can impair bilirubin processing. Bile Duct Obstruction : Gallstones or tumors can block bile ducts, preventing bilirubin from being excreted. Hemolytic Anemia : Conditions that cause the rapid breakdown of red blood cells can lead to elevated bilirubin levels. Genetic Disorders : Certain inherited conditions, like Gilbert's syndrome, can also result in jaundice. Symptoms may include dark urine, pale stools, and itching. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If you or someone else is experiencing jaundice, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

 Column chromatography  Column chromatography is a laboratory technique used to separate, identify, and purify mixtures of compounds based on their chemical properties and affinities. Principle: Column chromatography involves passing a mixture through a stationary phase (adsorbent material) packed in a column. The components separate as they interact differently with the stationary phase. Types: 1. Adsorption Chromatography: Separates based on adsorption to the stationary phase. 2. Ion-Exchange Chromatography: Separates ions based on electrostatic interactions. 3. Size-Exclusion Chromatography: Separates based on molecular size. 4. Affinity Chromatography: Separates based on specific binding interactions. Steps: 1. Preparation: Choose stationary phase, column, and solvents. 2. Sample Loading: Apply mixture to the column. 3. Elution: Pass solvent through the column. 4. Separation: Components separate based on interactions. 5. Detection: Identify separated components using detec...

 Liver Function Tests (LFTs)  Liver Function Tests (LFTs) are blood tests that assess liver damage, disease, or dysfunction. They measure various enzymes, proteins, and waste products to evaluate liver health. Common LFT Parameters: 1. Alanine Transaminase (ALT) 2. Aspartate Transaminase (AST) 3. Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) 4. Total Bilirubin (TBIL) 5. Direct Bilirubin (DBIL) 6. Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) 7. Albumin 8. Total Protein What LFTs Indicate: 1. ALT/AST: Liver cell damage (hepatocellular injury) 2. ALP: Bile duct obstruction or liver damage 3. TBIL/DBIL: Liver's ability to process bilirubin (jaundice) 4. GGT: Liver damage, alcohol use, or bile duct disease 5. Albumin: Liver's synthetic function (protein production) 6. Total Protein: Liver's overall synthetic function Interpretation: 1. Normal: No liver damage or disease 2. Elevated: Liver damage, disease, or dysfunction 3. Decreased: Impaired liver function (e.g., cirrhosis) Clinical Significance: 1. Diagnose...

 Molar solution preparation and normality solution preparation Molar Solution (Molarity) Molarity (M) = moles of solute / liters of solution Preparation: 1. Calculate mass of solute needed: mass = molarity x molecular weight x volume (in liters) Weigh solute accurately.  Dissolve in distilled water to desired volume.  Mix well. Normality Solution (Normality) Normality (N) = number of equivalents of solute / liters of solution Preparation: 1. Calculate mass of solute needed: mass = normality x equivalent weight x volume (in liters)  Weigh solute accurately. Dissolve in distilled water to desired volume. Mix well. Conversion between Molarity and Normality: - Molarity x valence = Normality - Normality / valence = Molarity Common Valences: - Acid-base reactions: 1 or 2 - Redox reactions: 1 or 2 - Precipitation reactions: 1 or 2 Preparation Examples: - 1M NaCl (sodium chloride): 58.44 g/L - 1N HCl (hydrochloric acid): 36.5 g/L - 0.5M CaCl2 (calcium chloride): 55.1 g/L Tip...

Recent advancements in biochemistry  Gene Editing: Researchers have discovered TnpB, a smaller ancestor of CRISPR-Cas, which can edit genes more efficiently . This breakthrough has the potential to transform gene therapy and synthetic biology. - Disease Detection: Scientists have developed innovative methods for detecting diseases, including an origami-paper sensor for tracking infectious diseases in wastewater  and a low-power laser-based immunoassay for rapid virus detection  - Cancer Research: A study has uncovered why CAR-T cell therapy fails in some patients, paving the way for new strategies  - Neurological Disorders: A groundbreaking soft cortical device may revolutionize the treatment of epilepsy and other neurological conditions. - Sustainable Energy: Artificial photosynthesis systems can now bind two carbon atoms together, a crucial step in creating sustainable fuels . - Environmental Conservation: Engineers have designed a system to catch and destroy ...

Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial nutrient that plays several important roles in the body. Here are some key points about B12: Functions Red Blood Cell Formation : B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, helping to prevent anemia. Nerve Health : It supports the maintenance of the myelin sheath, which protects nerves. DNA Synthesis : B12 is vital for proper DNA formation and cell division. Energy Production : It aids in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates for energy. Sources Animal Products : Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy are primary sources. Fortified Foods : Some plant-based foods and cereals are fortified with B12. Supplements : Available in various forms, including tablets, sublinguals, and injections. Deficiency A deficiency can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, nerve problems (tingling or numbness), and cognitive difficulties. Vegans and vegetarians are at higher risk since B12 is primarily found in animal products. R...

  A medicinal plant, also known as an herbal medicine, is a plant or plant part that is used to treat or prevent disease, or to promote general health:        Definition A medicinal plant is a plant whose parts are used as a medicine to treat a condition or disease.   Uses Medicinal plants are used in traditional and conventional medicine, as well as in cosmetics, food supplements, and other natural health products.   History The use of medicinal plants dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their use in Egypt, Greece, China, and India. Safety Some medicinal plants contain dangerous substances and should be used carefully. Herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA and have not been tested in clinical trials. Interactions Herbal supplements can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines and cause adverse drug reactions. Symptoms  If you experience nausea, dizziness, headache, swelling, upset stomach, or breathing dif...